Many people think sickle cell disease is an illness of childhood. There is no cure for, but medical advances since the 1960s are helping many children with the disease live well into adulthood.

As children with sickle cell disease become adults, care can become more difficult. Patients must find new doctors and face insurance issues. The Sickle Cell Center for Excellence is a new model for reducing the barriers to adult care.

Our Center will help you find a new doctor who knows your medical history. Our staff will help you continue getting regular checkups, preventative care, prescriptions, and social services.

As an adult, you will have more responsibility for your own care. We are here to help you make the transition to adult-centered services. Our Center becomes your medical home for a lifetime of care.

Making the transition easier

For Patients

Learn about your type of sickle cell disease

Know your past medical history

Know what medicines you are on and why

Keep your appointments and arrive on time

Speak up and ask questions during clinic visits

Take medicines independently or with few reminders

Get plenty of rest, water, and exercise.

Eat a balanced diet and know your limits

Know when you need to come to the hospital and how to call for help

Learn about how insurance works

Think about your future and learn how to take care of yourself

For Parents

Encourage independence

Allow your child to speak for themselves and take an active role during clinic visits

Teach your child about the disease and the medications

Teach your child about past medical history

Help your child prepare questions for the health care team

Be a role model for good health habits related to diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol use

Make sure that your child knows what type of health insurance you have and understands how insurance works

Help your child prepare for higher education, work, and living on their own